The Teeter Totter of Running

I love running. I’ve been running for a while and it seems that I am either in a stage of complete running bliss, or burned out. For some reason it’s so hard for me to find a happy medium and I’m like a teeter totter completely on one side or the other. At the beginning of the month, running was fairly easy, I had no issues finding time to get in a run and I seemed to be having no aches or pains. In the last two weeks, it seems like I have been struggling to get in a solid run in and when they do, they are tough.

It’s hard for me when I am in that ‘place’ of burned out to remember how awesome running can be. It seems to come in waves and when I’m in the lower point where running isn’t fun and perfect, it’s hard to get out there and get it done. I try to remember that feeling of elation I get when I do have a good run, and try to push through those sloggy feelings that I had to fit it in. I have been doing much better this year in general as I’m trying to make each run count and have a purpose. I’ve cut down a lot on junk miles or just running to get to a weekly mileage goal, which has helped a lot with keeping the burnout away, but sometimes it still creeps up.

This weekend I finally got in a good run on Friday and then went for a long run on Sunday. After a super long two day track meet, I was inspired by my team and how well they ran. I always am pumped up to run after I watch them race. On Sunday, it was a run where I was actually feeling awesome the entire time. I finished with two fast miles, and though I really had to push myself, it felt great to run hard. It’s that feeling that I love when I get home and feel accomplished and not beat up and tired. I just need to remember that during the low points on the teeter totter of running, it will pass and that the fact that I can run is incredible and something I need to cherish. Getting through the tough running times make the easy running days that much sweeter.

You may also like

2 Comments

I think we all experience the teeter totter effect you are referring to. I am trying to take it easy after my marathon in May. Marathon training takes a lot out of you and if you are not able to commit 110% it is tough. I think you are doing great! Keep up the great work!

I am the same way! I am either feeling completely head over heels in love, or very grudgingly forcing myself to get out the door and then trying to stave off boredom while I am out there. The thing is I know that I LOVE running, I try and remind myself that in life there are hills and sometimes we are at the top of our game and sometimes we are in the valley, but it never lasts and running will always be there for me.

Also spring has helped so much! I was so jealous of all of your snow free pictures. I am so happy to be wearing shorts again (even though the snow has not completely melted yet.)

Check Out My Book!

Released in October of 2015, I wrote Running for Women to help everyone to embrace running. Starting out can be intimidating but this book will help you tackle every step at your own pace. I hope you find it exciting, helpful and motivating!

Get Race Day Ready!

This form needs Javascript to display, which your browser doesn't support. Sign up here instead